EMDR Therapists in New Jersey

Photo of Victoria Link, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Victoria Link
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
One of my greatest decisions was to get trained in EMDR.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change, able to take accountability for their actions, and open-minded to new concepts and challenges that improve their daily life. I encourage clients to develop SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals within the first few sessions to ensure active progress is being attained.
One of my greatest decisions was to get trained in EMDR.
My ideal client is someone who is motivated for change, able to take accountability for their actions, and open-minded to new concepts and challenges that improve their daily life. I encourage clients to develop SMART (specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound) goals within the first few sessions to ensure active progress is being attained.
(848) 345-2818 View (848) 345-2818
Photo of Dale B Bromberg, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Dale B Bromberg
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540
Hello my practice focuses on adults who maybe struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, eating disorders, and other issues. I’ve helped individuals with health concerns and life transitions. I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength Based Perspective, EMDR and Spirituality. Working together you can achieve goals and feel better about yourself and life.
Hello my practice focuses on adults who maybe struggling with anxiety, depression, grief, trauma, eating disorders, and other issues. I’ve helped individuals with health concerns and life transitions. I utilize a variety of modalities including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Narrative Therapy, Solution Focused, Strength Based Perspective, EMDR and Spirituality. Working together you can achieve goals and feel better about yourself and life.
(609) 293-4907 View (609) 293-4907
Photo of Melissa Campbell, DSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Melissa Campbell
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, DSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Lincroft, NJ 07738
She specializes in caregiver stress, anxiety, assisting those overwhelmed with medical challenges, and EMDR Therapy when appropriate.
When faced with one of life’s many obstacles, an important step is to reach out for support. I have no doubt you have strengths. You and I will work together to capitalize on those strengths and develop a healthier sense of self. My goal as your therapist is to help you navigate challenging transitions in the most productive way possible as we improve on your quality of life. Please consider visiting my website and giving me a call to learn more about how we may work together.
She specializes in caregiver stress, anxiety, assisting those overwhelmed with medical challenges, and EMDR Therapy when appropriate.
When faced with one of life’s many obstacles, an important step is to reach out for support. I have no doubt you have strengths. You and I will work together to capitalize on those strengths and develop a healthier sense of self. My goal as your therapist is to help you navigate challenging transitions in the most productive way possible as we improve on your quality of life. Please consider visiting my website and giving me a call to learn more about how we may work together.
(732) 561-5366 View (732) 561-5366
Photo of Anne Chaya Danziger, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anne Chaya Danziger
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Lakewood, NJ 08701
I am an empathic and caring therapist, trained in traumatic grief, EMDR, and IFS.
Are you feeling that your life is not as wonderful as you thought it would be? Struggling to be a good wife and mother when you can barely catch your breath and hold yourself up. You struggle with grief after divorce or loss of a loved one. You might have had a difficult childhood during which your necessary and adaptive responses can bring suffering in the present. There is the possibility of remarrying and raising a larger family. You feel overwhelmed and unhappy and want others to respond to you in a more positive way. It’s hard to feel confident being a mother when you didn’t have the right role model growing up.
I am an empathic and caring therapist, trained in traumatic grief, EMDR, and IFS.
Are you feeling that your life is not as wonderful as you thought it would be? Struggling to be a good wife and mother when you can barely catch your breath and hold yourself up. You struggle with grief after divorce or loss of a loved one. You might have had a difficult childhood during which your necessary and adaptive responses can bring suffering in the present. There is the possibility of remarrying and raising a larger family. You feel overwhelmed and unhappy and want others to respond to you in a more positive way. It’s hard to feel confident being a mother when you didn’t have the right role model growing up.
(848) 280-7877 View (848) 280-7877
Photo of Abrah Sprung - Abrah Sprung, PhD EMDR Therapy & EMDR Intensives, PhD, Psychologist
Abrah Sprung, PhD EMDR Therapy & EMDR Intensives
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Englewood, NJ 07631  (Online Only)
I’m a Certified EMDR Therapist, specializing in helping people heal from trauma and other painful experiences.
EMDR Therapy & EMDR Intensives Specialist - Are you tired of carrying the weight of the past? You’ve had a painful experience that’s changed your life, and now who you are and how you see the world aren’t the same anymore. Maybe you’ve been in an accident, experienced sexual trauma, a diagnosis, or abuse, or lost someone (or something) you love. You're feeling lost, angry, and afraid. And you wonder if you’ll ever feel good or like yourself again. You need someone who understands and can help you put the pieces back together, customizing that help to your personal story and unique needs.
I’m a Certified EMDR Therapist, specializing in helping people heal from trauma and other painful experiences.
EMDR Therapy & EMDR Intensives Specialist - Are you tired of carrying the weight of the past? You’ve had a painful experience that’s changed your life, and now who you are and how you see the world aren’t the same anymore. Maybe you’ve been in an accident, experienced sexual trauma, a diagnosis, or abuse, or lost someone (or something) you love. You're feeling lost, angry, and afraid. And you wonder if you’ll ever feel good or like yourself again. You need someone who understands and can help you put the pieces back together, customizing that help to your personal story and unique needs.
(201) 627-6007 View (201) 627-6007
Photo of Andrea L Bush-Tyldsley, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Andrea L Bush-Tyldsley
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Voorhees, NJ 08043
I practice the technique EMDR to help clients address trauma issues, and move past them, thus being able to enjoy better relationships and an improved quality of life free of depression and anxiety.
I have been a counselor for 33 years, and believe it is a calling . My primary focus is helping my client achieve relief from symptoms and behaviors that interfere with having satisfying relationships and enjoyment in their life's work. Therapy is a journey we take together to see where you have been, and where you would like to go, and what your personal road blocks are to happiness and contentment. I can help with depression, trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, marital conflict, food concerns, self esteem, and grief. It is an honor to be part of your journey.
I practice the technique EMDR to help clients address trauma issues, and move past them, thus being able to enjoy better relationships and an improved quality of life free of depression and anxiety.
I have been a counselor for 33 years, and believe it is a calling . My primary focus is helping my client achieve relief from symptoms and behaviors that interfere with having satisfying relationships and enjoyment in their life's work. Therapy is a journey we take together to see where you have been, and where you would like to go, and what your personal road blocks are to happiness and contentment. I can help with depression, trauma, relationship issues, anxiety, marital conflict, food concerns, self esteem, and grief. It is an honor to be part of your journey.
(602) 814-0024 View (602) 814-0024
Photo of Alexandra Dimant, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Dimant
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Tenafly, NJ 07670
Waitlist for new clients
Thus, I can help with a localized problem using EMDR or CBT methods or untangle a deeper issue using existentialist and insight-oriented approaches.
I believe that my work is in helping clients walk less blindly through life. I try to ask questions to clarify the principles underlying the ways they relate to the world and others. I help not only with common problems (anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias, OCD, etc.) but also work with those whose issues are not easily captured by a diagnosis and are existential in nature. The so-called "worried well" come to uncover and work through the sources of internal struggles, in order to become their best selves and live a more fulfilling life. I am fully bilingual and practice in both English and Russian.
Thus, I can help with a localized problem using EMDR or CBT methods or untangle a deeper issue using existentialist and insight-oriented approaches.
I believe that my work is in helping clients walk less blindly through life. I try to ask questions to clarify the principles underlying the ways they relate to the world and others. I help not only with common problems (anxiety, depression, PTSD, phobias, OCD, etc.) but also work with those whose issues are not easily captured by a diagnosis and are existential in nature. The so-called "worried well" come to uncover and work through the sources of internal struggles, in order to become their best selves and live a more fulfilling life. I am fully bilingual and practice in both English and Russian.
(646) 606-2466 View (646) 606-2466
Photo of Kristin Briggs, EdD, Psychologist
Kristin Briggs
Psychologist, EdD
Verified Verified
Metuchen, NJ 08840
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Therapy is a helpful process to cope with stressors including major life transitions, relationship issues, grief and loss, and traumatic experiences. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between the clinician and the client including the provision of a safe, supportive environment in which to explore innermost thoughts and feelings. My approach is collaborative with a belief that my clients and I are working together as a team to enrich the client's life by raising awareness, identifying feelings, and improving coping skills ultimately to reduce symptoms and change undesired behavioral patterns.
I have been trained in Eye Movement Desensitization Reprocessing (EMDR).
Therapy is a helpful process to cope with stressors including major life transitions, relationship issues, grief and loss, and traumatic experiences. I believe the most important aspect of therapy is the relationship between the clinician and the client including the provision of a safe, supportive environment in which to explore innermost thoughts and feelings. My approach is collaborative with a belief that my clients and I are working together as a team to enrich the client's life by raising awareness, identifying feelings, and improving coping skills ultimately to reduce symptoms and change undesired behavioral patterns.
(973) 310-2177 View (973) 310-2177
Photo of Sherolde Hackett, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sherolde Hackett
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
Mount Laurel, NJ 08054  (Online Only)
Our offerings include: holistic modalities, EMDR Therapy, cultural sensitivity, empowerment and healing, and advocacy and support.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support and guidance on their journey towards improved mental health, personal growth, and overall well-being. They may be dealing with a range of issues, such as: trauma and healing, racial identity challenges, stress and anxiety, personal growth and development. Their goals may include emotional resilience, trauma processing, cognitive shifts, narrative transformation, and mindfulness and awareness.
Our offerings include: holistic modalities, EMDR Therapy, cultural sensitivity, empowerment and healing, and advocacy and support.
My ideal client is someone who is seeking support and guidance on their journey towards improved mental health, personal growth, and overall well-being. They may be dealing with a range of issues, such as: trauma and healing, racial identity challenges, stress and anxiety, personal growth and development. Their goals may include emotional resilience, trauma processing, cognitive shifts, narrative transformation, and mindfulness and awareness.
(856) 347-8825 View (856) 347-8825
Photo of Anxiety Specialist Rachel Hanley, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Anxiety Specialist Rachel Hanley
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Morristown, NJ 07960
I utilize EMDR therapy for anyone who has experienced a distressing event in their lives that they want to heal from.
Accepting new clients - Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and taking this courageous step to better yourself. People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, but you’ve come to the right place if life has felt more stressful than is manageable for you. The way you’re doing things isn’t helping you anymore. It is only making you feel more stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed. If you have been struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, stress, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions or sports performance issues then let's connect.
I utilize EMDR therapy for anyone who has experienced a distressing event in their lives that they want to heal from.
Accepting new clients - Welcome! I’m glad you’re here and taking this courageous step to better yourself. People seek therapy for a variety of reasons, but you’ve come to the right place if life has felt more stressful than is manageable for you. The way you’re doing things isn’t helping you anymore. It is only making you feel more stressed, anxious, and overwhelmed. If you have been struggling with anxiety, perfectionism, stress, OCD, low self-esteem, relationship issues, life transitions or sports performance issues then let's connect.
(862) 346-6903 View (862) 346-6903
Photo of Yevgenia (Gina) Levi, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Yevgenia (Gina) Levi
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Jersey City, NJ 07302  (Online Only)
She uses Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, as well as Cognitive behavioral therapy Strength-based therapy to support her clients and meet their needs.
Gina Levi has extensive experience working with adults, children, and couples from various cultural backgrounds. Her background consists of various settings including foster care and adoption, school, community centers as well as grief and bereavement counseling. Gina focuses on mindfulness and a holistic approach to help her clients make meaningful changes. Gina creates a safe space where her clients are encouraged to share their feelings as well as set and meet unique goals.
She uses Motivational Interviewing, EMDR, as well as Cognitive behavioral therapy Strength-based therapy to support her clients and meet their needs.
Gina Levi has extensive experience working with adults, children, and couples from various cultural backgrounds. Her background consists of various settings including foster care and adoption, school, community centers as well as grief and bereavement counseling. Gina focuses on mindfulness and a holistic approach to help her clients make meaningful changes. Gina creates a safe space where her clients are encouraged to share their feelings as well as set and meet unique goals.
(862) 263-9598 View (862) 263-9598
Photo of Peter J Paterno, MSW, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Peter J Paterno
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, MSW, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Englewood, NJ 07631
I utilize a variety of short term treatment approaches including CBT and EMDR to help clients effect change in their lives and overcome obstacles in their way that keep them from attaining their goals.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
I utilize a variety of short term treatment approaches including CBT and EMDR to help clients effect change in their lives and overcome obstacles in their way that keep them from attaining their goals.
"Helping clients to promote meaningful change in their lives." Overcome anxiety, depression, grief, ADHD, relationship challenges, OCD and substance abuse. Working with Teens to adults in a warm, comfortable and supportive professional space.
(201) 731-2007 View (201) 731-2007
Photo of Susan Furrer, PsyD, Psychologist
Susan Furrer
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Princeton, NJ 08540  (Online Only)
I work in a deeply collaborative way and use treatment approaches such as EMDR and EFT.
Individual psychotherapy for: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, vocational and academic functioning, looking for better ways of being in the world. I work with adults, children, teens and young adults and families. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma in their lives.
I work in a deeply collaborative way and use treatment approaches such as EMDR and EFT.
Individual psychotherapy for: anxiety, depression, trauma, relationship issues, vocational and academic functioning, looking for better ways of being in the world. I work with adults, children, teens and young adults and families. I specialize in working with individuals who have experienced trauma in their lives.
(609) 751-5737 View (609) 751-5737
Photo of Michelle S Reuben - Perspectives Counseling Center, MEd, LPC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Perspectives Counseling Center
Licensed Professional Counselor, MEd, LPC
Verified Verified
Piscataway, NJ 08854
Specializations include: DBT, EMDR, Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse, Self harm, Life Transitions, Complex Trauma.
Are you or your loved one experiencing difficulty managing emotions, chaotic relationships, overwhelming stress, or high risk behaviors? Have other treatments been unsuccessful? We offer evidenced based treatments designed to help you gain control of your life and adopt healthy and balanced thinking/behaviors. Individuals will gain greater awareness of self, ability to manage emotions, improve relationships, and build a life worth living. We offer a safe environment, personalized treatment plans, and are dedicated to helping you reach your personal goals.
Specializations include: DBT, EMDR, Depression and Mood Disorders, Anxiety Disorders, Substance Abuse, Self harm, Life Transitions, Complex Trauma.
Are you or your loved one experiencing difficulty managing emotions, chaotic relationships, overwhelming stress, or high risk behaviors? Have other treatments been unsuccessful? We offer evidenced based treatments designed to help you gain control of your life and adopt healthy and balanced thinking/behaviors. Individuals will gain greater awareness of self, ability to manage emotions, improve relationships, and build a life worth living. We offer a safe environment, personalized treatment plans, and are dedicated to helping you reach your personal goals.
(732) 831-7534 View (732) 831-7534
Photo of Michael W Levin, EdD, LPC , LCADC, Licensed Professional Counselor
Michael W Levin
Licensed Professional Counselor, EdD, LPC , LCADC
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234  (Online Only)
I offer a didactic blend of counseling techniques including Person Centered, Solution Focused, EMDR, Strengths-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness tools.
My name is Michael Levin, I'm a licensed professional counselor that believes effective treatment is individualized and tailored to meet the needs of each person treated. I utilize an evidence based blend of counseling techniques to support the individual needs of the people I work with. I meet people where they are in their lives and move at a pace that works for them. My areas of professional interest include individual therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulties with transitions and adjusting to new situations, interpersonal relationships, and psychoeducation. I have spent the last 10 years working with college students.
I offer a didactic blend of counseling techniques including Person Centered, Solution Focused, EMDR, Strengths-based, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, and Mindfulness tools.
My name is Michael Levin, I'm a licensed professional counselor that believes effective treatment is individualized and tailored to meet the needs of each person treated. I utilize an evidence based blend of counseling techniques to support the individual needs of the people I work with. I meet people where they are in their lives and move at a pace that works for them. My areas of professional interest include individual therapy, anxiety, depression, trauma, difficulties with transitions and adjusting to new situations, interpersonal relationships, and psychoeducation. I have spent the last 10 years working with college students.
(640) 202-9008 View (640) 202-9008
Photo of Doreen Maria H Greco - Doreen H. Greco, LCSW, LCADC, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Doreen H. Greco
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW, LCADC
Verified Verified
Paramus, NJ 07652  (Online Only)
Some of my specialties are child and adolescent therapy, addictions and EMDR.
Welcome and thank you for considering to use my counseling services. Whether you are feeling life stress from work, family or friends, are struggling to understand yourself or how to feel better, together in a warm supportive confidential environment, we can explore your concerns and discover how to help you find the best solutions. I work with individuals that are adults, children or adolescents, couples and families. People come for help for a variety of issues such as dealing with stage of life adjustments, parenting, overcoming anxiety, depression and addictions, improving relationships and reaching personal and professional goals.
Some of my specialties are child and adolescent therapy, addictions and EMDR.
Welcome and thank you for considering to use my counseling services. Whether you are feeling life stress from work, family or friends, are struggling to understand yourself or how to feel better, together in a warm supportive confidential environment, we can explore your concerns and discover how to help you find the best solutions. I work with individuals that are adults, children or adolescents, couples and families. People come for help for a variety of issues such as dealing with stage of life adjustments, parenting, overcoming anxiety, depression and addictions, improving relationships and reaching personal and professional goals.
(201) 297-6939 View (201) 297-6939
Photo of Jane Kelly, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Jane Kelly
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
Randolph, NJ 07869
I have training in a variety of different modalities of therapy including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral,EMDR and Post Induction Therapy (Pia Melody).
Change is possible....... If you find yourself stuck in the same hurtful patterns, our work together can help you move away from that exhaustive way of living......... As a psychotherapist, I work with adults faced with emotional and environmental challenges. I am using Teletherapy to provide a safe, supportive and collaborative atmosphere ...where my clients are able to identify their needs, share their experiences and take the lead in incremental changes. They are able to connect with me where ever they are.
I have training in a variety of different modalities of therapy including psychodynamic, cognitive-behavioral,EMDR and Post Induction Therapy (Pia Melody).
Change is possible....... If you find yourself stuck in the same hurtful patterns, our work together can help you move away from that exhaustive way of living......... As a psychotherapist, I work with adults faced with emotional and environmental challenges. I am using Teletherapy to provide a safe, supportive and collaborative atmosphere ...where my clients are able to identify their needs, share their experiences and take the lead in incremental changes. They are able to connect with me where ever they are.
(973) 797-9020 View (973) 797-9020
Photo of Aaron Strauss, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Aaron Strauss
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Brick, NJ 08724
Welcome to your journey towards healing and self-discovery. I'm here to guide you through the complex landscape of your emotions and relationships. Drawing from a wealth of experience and a deeply personal understanding of the human psyche, I specialize in crafting a therapeutic experience that's uniquely tailored to your needs. Through a blend of modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing, we'll unravel the layers of your past and present to pave the way for a brighter, more fulfilling future.
Welcome to your journey towards healing and self-discovery. I'm here to guide you through the complex landscape of your emotions and relationships. Drawing from a wealth of experience and a deeply personal understanding of the human psyche, I specialize in crafting a therapeutic experience that's uniquely tailored to your needs. Through a blend of modalities including Internal Family Systems (IFS), Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR), and Somatic Experiencing, we'll unravel the layers of your past and present to pave the way for a brighter, more fulfilling future.
(732) 385-3456 View (732) 385-3456
Photo of Alexandra Camarda, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Alexandra Camarda
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
6 Endorsed
Pennington, NJ 08534
Not accepting new clients
The tools I use to help individuals accomplish their goals are concepts and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness based practices.
I am a client-centered therapist who strives towards helping each individual find their strengths and develop compassion and kindness towards self. I am a therapist who believes in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and uses a compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach with each of my clients.
The tools I use to help individuals accomplish their goals are concepts and skills from Dialectical Behavioral Therapy (DBT), EMDR, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and mindfulness based practices.
I am a client-centered therapist who strives towards helping each individual find their strengths and develop compassion and kindness towards self. I am a therapist who believes in the importance of the therapeutic relationship and uses a compassionate, empathetic, and non-judgmental approach with each of my clients.
(609) 614-3486 View (609) 614-3486
Photo of Sarina A Mulleavey, LCSW, Clinical Social Work/Therapist
Sarina A Mulleavey
Clinical Social Work/Therapist, LCSW
Verified Verified
I am passionate about working with men and women ages 18 years-old to older adults who are navigating life’s challenges, who feel blue, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, angry, who are not able to concentrate in college or at the workplace, who are unsettled due to their trauma and utilize bad coping skills. I help individuals grow while they feel stuck and shut down. I provide various forms of therapeutic treatment, not just talk therapy. My specialized experience and trainings are broad from: Gottman Marriage/Couples L1 L2 Psycho-education, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Trauma, Gestalt , Hypnosis, Yoga, and Holistic Treatments.
I am passionate about working with men and women ages 18 years-old to older adults who are navigating life’s challenges, who feel blue, overwhelmed, depressed, anxious, angry, who are not able to concentrate in college or at the workplace, who are unsettled due to their trauma and utilize bad coping skills. I help individuals grow while they feel stuck and shut down. I provide various forms of therapeutic treatment, not just talk therapy. My specialized experience and trainings are broad from: Gottman Marriage/Couples L1 L2 Psycho-education, CBT, DBT, Mindfulness, EMDR, Trauma, Gestalt , Hypnosis, Yoga, and Holistic Treatments.
(848) 224-6305 View (848) 224-6305
EMDR Therapists

Who is EMDR for?

EMDR was initially developed as a treatment for individuals with Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), for whom memories of a deeply distressing experience can be inadvertently triggered by random everyday events. The procedure has since been applied in the treatment of many other conditions. For example, it is used by some therapists to treat anxiety disorders including panic and phobias, depression, dissociative disorders, eating disorders, obsessive-compulsive disorders, and some personality disorders. It is suitable for adolescents and adults.

Why do people need EMDR?

People need EMDR as a way to manage distressing memories that in some way hamper the ability to function in the present. The procedure is believed to target the way memories are stored in the brain. Evidence indicates that past disturbing experiences cause ongoing distress because they were not adequately processed, and when such memories are triggered in the present, they are accompanied by all the emotions, thoughts, and physical sensations as the initial experience.

What problems does EMDR treat?

First and foremost, EMDR is intended as a treatment for PTSD, to defuse distressing memories that intrude on and impair everyday functioning. It is also often used to help those who are subject to panic attacks, phobias, and other forms of anxiety. In addition, EMDR has been used to treat individuals with depression, eating disorders, and personality disorders.

What happens in EMDR therapy?

First the therapist takes an individual’s history, and then the therapist and client decide which distressing experience(s) will be the target(s) of the exercise, delivered via a side-to-side visual stimulus requiring lateral eye movements. The client will be asked to activate thoughts, feelings, and any body sensations related to the troubling experience. The eye movements are said to reduce the emotional charge of the memory, so that the experience can then be safely discussed with the therapist and digested, minimizing its ability to trigger anxiety.